These easy zucchini breadsticks are perfect for snacking! With soft zucchini mixed into a tasty dough, they’re warm, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious. Plus, they bake up golden brown!
When my friends come over, I can’t keep these around for long! They disappear faster than I can make them. 😄 I love serving them with some marinara sauce for dipping!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: A medium zucchini adds moisture and nutrients. If you can’t find fresh zucchini, you might use frozen grated zucchini; just ensure to thaw and drain it well first.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best, but for a gluten-free option, you can use a 1-for-1 gluten-free baking blend. This will keep the texture right!
Cheese: Parmesan adds a wonderful flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Garlic Powder: This gives a nice flavor. If you prefer fresh, use a small clove of garlic minced instead.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Breadsticks?
The key to great zucchini breadsticks is managing moisture. Grating and squeezing out the excess moisture from the zucchini is crucial. This prevents sogginess!
- After grating the zucchini, use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible.
- Avoid over-mixing the dough; just combine until everything is nicely mixed.
- When shaping the dough, try to keep it uniform in thickness for even baking.
Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you can have these delicious zucchini breadsticks ready in just about 35-40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the breadsticks bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Wash the zucchini thoroughly. Grate it using a box grater or food processor, then place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This step is crucial for avoiding soggy breadsticks!
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, oregano (if using), and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to combine everything evenly.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, olive oil, and milk until well combined. This will add moisture and help bind the dough together.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your breadsticks might become tough!
6. Fold in the Zucchini and Cheese:
Next, gently fold in the grated zucchini and shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shape the Breadsticks:
Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet, then shape it into a rectangle that’s about 1/2 inch thick. This thickness allows for even cooking!
8. Cut into Breadsticks:
Using a knife or pizza cutter, carefully cut the dough into strips to create breadstick shapes. You can make them as thick or thin as you like!
9. Bake the Breadsticks:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them—they should smell amazing!
10. Add the Finishing Touch:
Once they’re out of the oven, you can sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley over the top for a nice touch of color and flavor, if desired.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, cheesy zucchini breadsticks with marinara sauce for dipping. They’re perfect for a snack or appetizer!
Enjoy your easy zucchini breadsticks as a tasty, healthy snack!
FAQ for Easy Zucchini Breadsticks
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini! Just make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the dough, just like you would with fresh zucchini.
How Can I Make These Zucchini Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check the other ingredients for any hidden gluten as well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.
What Can I Serve Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives to marinara sauce, try serving your zucchini breadsticks with ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a simple yogurt dip for a different flavor profile!
